12 Hidden Getaways in Florida for a Blissful Winter Vacation

12 Hidden Getaways in Florida for a Blissful Winter Vacation

America’s sunshine state is a popular destination for winter escapes, but you can still find secret winter getaways in Florida too.

Think miles of pristine, uncrowded beaches, progressive cities, and incredible nature preserves with unique wildlife-watching opportunities.  As the southeastern most state in the U.S., Florida has them all.

Where can you find these hidden gems in Florida?  I teamed up with other pro travelers to come up with this list of the best winter vacation locations in Florida that are not as well-known.

As a Canadian, of course, I wanted to find the best Florida beaches to help stay warm during our cold months.  The list also includes Florida winter vacation spots for nature-lovers, for families or for couples, along with suggestions for places to stay in Florida.  If you’re wondering what to pack for the winter or any time of the year, see this Florida packing list.

Read on for the list of hidden Florida getaways, and start planning your winter escape!

Florida’s Hidden Getaways:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Crystal River
  2. St Petersburg
  3. Big Cypress National Preserve
  4. Sanibel & Captiva Islands
  5. South Walton
  6. Mount Dora
  7. Titusville
  8. Caladesi Island State Park
  9. Tarpon Springs
  10. Anna Maria Island
  11. Blowing Rocks Preserve
  12. Bahia Honda State Park

1. Crystal River, a unique Florida wildlife experience

Manatees swimming underwater in Crystal River, Florida, a unique Florida winter vacation

Photo by Jenn and Ed Coleman at Coleman Concierge

From Jenn and Ed Coleman at Coleman Concierge:

Crystal River might not have the name recognition of Disney, but it can be every bit as magical for a winter getaway in Florida. Why? Because when the waters in the Gulf of Mexico drop below 68 degrees, manatees flock to the crystal clear springs of Crystal River, just 1.5 hours drive north of Tampa or west of Orlando. Not just one or two, but over four hundred of these gentle giants come to stay from December through March.

You can watch them from the shore at Three Sisters Springs. You can visit the manatees recovering at Homosassa Springs State Park, but our favorite activity is swimming with manatees. The Florida Wildlife Commission has been utilizing these manatees encounters to help educate the public about manatees.  You’ll learn how to take care of the manatees while experiencing some of the cutest animals around.

Make it a weekend getaway and see the mermaid show at Weeki Wachee, explore the Rainbow River, eat fabulous seafood on the waterfront, or simply take in the charm of small-town Florida. You’ll be glad you came, and even happier that you stayed.

Book your Crystal River swim with manatees here.

Where to stay in Crystal River:
Hotel: Retreat at Crystal Manatee
Airbnb: Ozello Island House, a waterfront home with direct access to the Gulf and nature preserve.

2. St. Petersburg, a Florida vacation spot for art & food lovers

Wall mural in St. Petersburg, a great Florida winter getaway for any art lover

Photo by Ayngelina Brogan at Bacon is Magic

From Ayngelina Brogan at Bacon is Magic

While Tampa deservedly gets lots of attention for being a fantastic city to visit in Florida, not many people know about its neighbour, St.Petersburg.

This city was once known as ‘God’s Waiting Room’ as nothing was happening here. But it is quietly becoming very popular with outsiders looking to live in a great small city. 

Sometimes called the “new Portland”, it has all the art, culture and entrepreneurship of Portland Oregon, but without the grey skies.  In fact, St.Petersburg has a whopping 361 days of sunshine each year – there are only 4 days a year without sunshine!

One of the more progressive cities in Florida, it has embraced street art and features it on the backs of most of the buildings downtown, so often the alleys are the most colourful.  St.Petersburg is also home one of the largest Pride parades in Florida and has a thriving LGBT+ community. 

The best restaurants in St.Petersburg are independently owned.  There is a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, but otherwise you don’t find mediocre quality chain restaurants here.  Instead, St.Petersburg has a diverse food community featuring local produce and international flavours. 

St.Petersburg is also home to the Dali Museum, which has the largest collection of Salvador Dali work outside Europe. A newer museum, there are lots of fun activities for kids including a 3D virtual reality experience.

There are lots of great hotels in St.Petersburg but the most grand is the Vinoy Renaissance Hotel, which is the unofficial hotel for nearly every major sports team that visits.

Where to stay in St. Petersburg:
Hotel: Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club.
Airbnb: Tropical Paradise in Central St Petersburg, located close to beaches and downtown St Petersburg.

3. Big Cypress National Preserve, an off-the-beaten path Florida getaway

Wooden boardwalk through the woods at Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida

Photo by Meagan Johnson at Red Around the World

From From Megan Johnson at Red Around the World:

Big Cypress National Preserve is a great Everglades National Park alternative, especially if you want to avoid the crazy crowds of peak season. Big Cypress covers most of South Florida that isn’t part of the Everglades or 10,000 Islands. This is a must-visit on any South Florida road trip. Big Cypress is a great place to camp so you can easily explore all it has to offer. But don’t worry, if camping isn’t your thing, you can always stay in Everglades City.

Make sure you stop at both visitor centres and look for gators in the water out front (or back). Then walk all the boardwalks and admire the cypress strands. The boardwalks are easy walks and pretty short. If you want to get off your feet and onto the water, rent a kayak and do some paddling trails to get up close and personal with the flora and fauna.

Big Cypress is great for spotting wildlife, too, and not just gators. You can see tons of birds, armadillos, bears, manatees (in the right area), the elusive Florida panther, and maybe even a Skunk Ape, Florida’s version of Bigfoot.

Where to Stay:
Hotel: Ivey House B&B
Airbnb: Beautiful beachy condo with direct Gulf access, located in Everglades City right across from the local airport.

4. Sanibel & Captiva Islands, a hidden Florida getaway for nature lovers

Roseate Spoonbills on Sanibel Island, a great Florida winter vacation spot

Roseate Spoonbills at Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge – Photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Green Global Travel

From Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Green Global Travel:

Located in southwest Florida off the coast of Fort Myers, Sanibel and Captiva are barrier islands, created by nature to protect the mainland from the elements with their palm and mangrove trees. Their gorgeous white sand beaches are consistently ranked among the finest in the world, lined with picturesque sea grape and sea oats that lend themselves to striking sunrise/sunset photography. Sanibel is also widely considered the number one shelling beach in the world, lending itself to a position commonly known as the “Sanibel stoop.”

Warm even in winter months, these islands are a haven for nature/wildlife lovers: Popular things to do in Sanibel and Captiva include exploring the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, dolphin-watching tours with Captiva Cruises, kayaking Tarpon Bay, and visiting the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife.

But our favorite spot is Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which takes up over half of Sanibel Island and is home to one of the country’s largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystems. Hiking, cycling, or driving the five miles of road that winds through the refuge is a must, revealing wildlife ranging from raccoons and alligators to a world-renowned assortment of birds that includes herons, egrets, Anhingas and the fluorescent pink Roseate Spoonbills. There are plenty of different accomodations options on both islands, but our favorites are ‘Tween Waters Inn (on Captiva) and Beachview Cottages (on Sanibel).

Sunset over beach and palm tree in Florida

Airbnb balcony view – Image via Airbnb

Where to stay:
Hotel: Tween Waters Inn Island Resort or Beachview Cottages
Airbnb: On a Whim, cute near beach cottage in village area or Sanibel Beachfront Condo at Sand’s Edge (photo above) – great view!

5. South Walton, a family beach vacation spot in Florida

Sunset on a beach in South Walton, Florida, a hidden gem in Florida

Photo by Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia

From Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia:

South Walton and the beaches of 30A is our secret winter getaway in Florida.  The area is home to many small beach communities which is popular among families in summer and fall as well.  It includes sweet and colorful coastal communities like Inlet Beach, Rosemary Beach, Seacrest, Alys Beach, WaterSound, Seagrove, Seaside and WaterColor among others.

If you are looking for a beach getaway with sugar-white sand and emerald waters, South Walton is just the place. Located in the northwest Florida panhandle, which is known as the Emerald Coast, there are 26 miles of beautiful sandy beaches here. The light pollution is so low, we saw the milky way one night from the beach. There are very few hotels in the area, but you can rent nice beach houses, in different budgets. It’s perfect for a family trip or a beach trip with a group of friends.  You can enjoy lazy days in the beach house relaxing with cocktails by the pool, bike to the different beach communities and see some amazing South Walton sunsets.

Where to stay:
Hotel: Pearl Hotel on Rosemary Beach
Airbnb: A Whaley Good Time, with plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.

6. Mount Dora, a small-town winter getaway in Florida

Small red and white lighthouse in Mount Dora, a Florida hidden getaway

Photo by Jillian Michelle of Adventure Dragon

From Jillian Michelle of Adventure Dragon:

Mount Dora is a lesser-known vacation spot in Florida, located on a lake just half an hour from Orlando.  It’s known for its small town charm and festive spirit, so it’s the perfect spot for a secret winter getaway in Florida.

The town holds so many celebrations that it’s often referred to as “Festival City.” During the winter, Mount Dora hosts at least ten annual celebrations, including a Christmas Walk, a Christmas Parade, an additional Christmas Boat Parade, and Light Up Mount Dora — a designated day when the whole town turns on Christmas lights in unison to celebrate the arrival of the holiday season.

The weather is warm enough during December to take a stroll by the town’s iconic Lake Dora. While you’re there, snap a memorable photo in front of the red and white, candy-striped lighthouse.  It’s one of only three freshwater lighthouses in Florida and is just the right color to provide a backdrop for a holiday setting. You can even pretend it’s a candy cane! There are almost endless things to do in Mount Dora, Florida, and there’s a variety of restaurants to suit every palate.  While you’re there, you can even stay in the oldest continuously operating hotel in the state of Florida–the historic Lakeside Inn! I highly recommend this cozy town for your next Florida winter trip!

Where to stay:
Hotel: Lakeside Inn on Lake Dora
Airbnb: Spanish-Style Bungalow in Quaint Mount Dora, a cozy vintage bungalow with modern comforts.

7. Titusville, a Florida beach vacation away from the crowds

Empty beach in Titusville, a secret Florida winter vacation spot

Photo by Vicky Sosa from Buddy The Traveling Monkey

From Vicky Sosa of Buddy The Traveling Monkey:

For a winter getaway in Florida, we recommend the city of Titusville on Florida’s Space Coast. It’s a small city, compared to cities like Orlando and Miami, but there is still plenty to do in Titusville.  Kennedy Space Center is nearby as well as other interesting museums (Get skip-the-line tickets for the Kennedy Space Center here.)  Of course, if you’d like to spend a day at a theme park, you can easily make the drive as Orlando is only 45 minutes away.

If you’d prefer more of a natural scene, we highly recommend visiting one of Titusville’s many parks or heading across the Indian River to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where you can see and learn about the area’s local flora and fauna. The beaches in Titusville are also pristine and not nearly as crowded as many other popular Florida beaches.

Do you like seafood? Titusville has great places to eat where you can enjoy seafood that’s been caught that same morning. We recommend visiting Pier 220, as they have delicious food and great views of the water. You definitely won’t be disappointed if you spend your winter in Titusville!

Where to stay:
Hotel: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center
Airbnb: River House Merritt Island, riverfront home close to the beach and Port Canaveral.

8. Caladesi Island State Park, a secluded Florida getaway

Caladesi State Park, an island getaway in Florida

Photo by Ashley Hubbard of Wild Hearted

From Ashley Hubbard of Wild Hearted:

If you want to catch a different glimpse into Florida, head to Caladesi Island State Park. At Caladesi Island you’ll find fewer crowds due to harder access, plenty of outdoor activities aside from the beach, more seashells than you could ever imagine, and wildlife sightings including dolphins, tortoises, snakes, birds, and more. It’s entirely probable to walk around the island via trails and see no one and you can easily find your own stretch of beach with no one around. Not an easy feat in Florida!

There are a few important things to know about Caladesi Island. You can only access the island by ferry, walking, kayak, or private boat. In order to use the ferry, you must first enter Honeymoon Island State Park ($8 per car) and purchase your ferry ticket ($14 per person). Once on the island, you only get 4 hours before having to return via ferry so use your time wisely, take plenty of bug spray for the trails, and reef-safe sunscreen.

Where to stay:
Hotel: Beyond the Wall B&B in Dunedin
Airbnb: One Block to the Beach, a cute and cozy beach apartment four minutes walk to the beach.

9. Tarpon Springs, a perfect Florida weekend getaway

Hand-painted sign for Tarpon Springs, one of the best secret winter getaways in Florida Photo by Ketki Sharangpani from Dotted Globe

From Ketki Sharangpani of Dotted Globe:

Tarpon Springs on the Gulf Coast is our favorite under-rated winter escape in Florida. It is located about an hour away from Tampa and makes for the perfect weekend getaway.

One of the main attractions of Tarpon Springs is the historic Sponge Dock. In the old days, Tarpon Springs flourished as the center of Florida’s sponge diving industry and Greek sponge divers settled in the area. Visitors can learn all about sponge diving history at the Sponge Docks and also take a cruise on a sponge diving boat.

Greek eateries line the Dodecanese Boulevard and tourists can eat Greek delicacies, try Greek desserts including baklava, and listen to Greek music. Tarpon Springs also has delicious seafood. The main street is filled with shops selling sponges, spices, olive oils, hand soaps, and antiques and is a delight to shop. Also worth checking out are the craft breweries in town. We love to end our Tarpon Springs visit with a visit to the nearby Fred Howard Park at sunset and take a walk along the beach.

Where to stay:
Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites
Airbnb: The Cypress House, a charming 1905 bungalow in the heart of downtown Tarpon Springs.

10. Anna Maria Island, a Florida vacation spot for relaxing

Boardwalk to empty beach on Anna Maria Island in Florida

Anna Maria Island is a perfect Florida winter getaway because you’ll feel a million miles away from it all on this seven-mile strip of gorgeous white sand beaches.

The island is on the west coast of Florida, 20 minutes from Bradenton and an hour south of Tampa.  The island has a relaxed feel to it, with three quaint towns:  Bradenton Beach in the south, Holmes Beach in the middle and Anna Maria in the North.  Spend the days on the crystal blue waters kayaking and snorkeling, or just lazing on the beach.  Boat tours offer a good chance of seeing dolphins.  Spend the evenings enjoying fresh seafood at the many local restaurants.  In the morning, get your fill of all you can eat pancakes at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe.

Balcony view of a beach

Amazing views of Bradenton Beach – Image via Airbnb

Where to stay: 
Hotel: Bridgewalk in Bradenton Beach
Airbnb: Bay Breeze Cottages (The Mahi-Mahi), located on the North End of the island and close to local attractions, or a Beachfront Condo in Bradenton Beach, with amazing views (photo above)!

11. Blowing Rocks Preserve, a natural hidden gem to visit in Florida

Ocean and limestone rocks at Blowing Rocks Preserve, a great winter vacation spot in Florida

A lesser-known Florida getaway spot, Blowing Rocks Preserve is a nature conservancy on Jupiter Island.  It’s near the town of Jupiter and about an hour’s drive north of Fort Lauderdale.

It’s known for huge limestone formations along the beach.  As the waves break against them, water sprays high into the air through gaps in the rock and the show is at its best in winter.  If you’re looking for a wild and natural beach in Florida, this is the place.

The area is also home to diverse ecosystems with a number of  endangered plants and animals including rare loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtles.  Follow the boardwalk at the Indian River Lagoon to learn more.

12. Bahia Honda State Park, for Florida sunsets and stargazing

Sunset over the bridge at the beach in Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys

While many are familiar with Key West, you’ll find one of the best Florida beach destinations in Bahia Honda State Park at mile marker 37 in the Florida Keys (just 12 miles south of Marathon).

The State Park has over 500 acres of lush habitat for many bird species and 150 species of flora.  It features a stunning bridge and three pristine beaches: Deep Bay, Sandspur, Loggerhead.  Loggerhead is also amazing for stargazing. Enjoy hiking, snorkeling and relaxing on the beach in this island paradise.  Take in the sunset from the “broken bridge”.

The island has cabins to rent and campgrounds on the beach, or you can choose from hotels nearby in Marathon.

Where to stay:
Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott in Marathon (18 kilometres from Bahia Honda State Park)
Airbnb: Apartment Suite at Eco Resort, including ocean views and a private balcony, and located in the heart of the Keys.

 

More Information:
Tourism Information: Visit Florida
Suggested Reading: Lonely Planet Florida (Travel Guide), DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Florida

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12 Secret Winter Getaways in Florida, USA

 

12 Secret Winter Getaways in Florida

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